Antarctic ice, encompassing vast ice sheets, glaciers, and sea ice, is a critical component of Earth's climate system. Its dynamics are crucial for...
Ice sheets are massive bodies of glacial ice located on land, while sea ice forms from frozen ocean water and floats on the surface of the sea.
When ice sheets and glaciers on land melt and flow into the ocean, they add water, directly contributing to global sea level rise. Melting sea ice, already floating, does not directly raise sea levels.
Rising global temperatures, primarily driven by human-induced climate change, are the main cause. Warmer ocean waters also erode ice shelves from below, accelerating glacier flow.
It reflects sunlight back into space, helping regulate Earth's temperature. It also influences ocean currents and atmospheric circulation patterns, impacting global weather.
Yes, the unique environment supports diverse marine life, including krill, penguins, seals, and whales, which rely on the ice for habitat, breeding grounds, and food sources.